Free online TV disappearing

Broadcasters took a big step toward eliminating free TV shows on the web after they blocked access to their programming online this month to enforce their demands to be paid.
Recent actions by Fox, ABC, NBC and CBS in two separate fee disputes suggest that after a few years of experimenting with free, ad-supported viewing, broadcasters ...

4 comments

This is more the reason to stop watching the lousy TV programs from these networks. It is getting to be impossible to actually enjoy TV due to the bombardment of commercials. I predict the future will be more viewers subscribing to Net Flix, etc. and watching movies without commercial interuptions. Maybe more of us will read, listen to music,
and actually live a life rather than vegetate in front of the poor TV services provided.

I can’t believe that with today’s technology we are not able to send a strong signal over the airwaves that is as good as cable.
If at least the cable companies were regulated we’d have a chance to negotiate.
The cable companies have cornered us we can take it or leave the system.
HEY! YOU GUYS WHO WANT OUR VOTES. GET ON THIS ISSUE. Fat chance, they’re all busy bilking them for campaign funds.

Actually, it is still free, even to those still using an old VHS recorder and analog TV for time shifting.
You will need a UHF roof antenna connected to a $50 digital converter box to the inputs of the VHS, and you can still watch all the “free” TV that is out there. NY metro has about 40 channels.
Unfortunately, this method will only work out to about 40 miles from the Empire State building, as digital transmissions are not receivable much beyond that. So, if you live in the boondocks, you are pretty much out of luck without cable, FIOS or satellite.

This is an interesting battle. I have been predicting for years that in the future (not so distant future) all video programming will be on demand (except for breaking news and sports). What will we do when the networks provide their content via the internet instead of or in addition to cable, satellite or the air waves. Nothing is free, remember we still have to pay for the cable into our homes. However, if wireless technology and free wireless internet access becomes more prevalent you never know. In the future content will be king and those who produce the best will be the leaders and they will be able to charge or attract advertisers.